Understanding Nehemiah 2:20 - Bible Verse Commentary

Bible Verse: Nehemiah 2:20 - "Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem."

Summary of Nehemiah 2:20

This verse captures the essence of Nehemiah's assertive response to the opposition he faced in his mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah emphasizes reliance on God’s promise of prosperity, affirming his commitment and that of the Jewish people to the rebuilding project while dismissing the claims of outsiders to the city.

Verse Analysis

• Divine Assurance: Nehemiah confidently states that "The God of heaven, he will prosper us," reflecting his belief that success in their endeavor is contingent upon divine support. This highlights the theme of reliance on God's sovereignty and ability to enable His people's works.
• Call to Action: His declaration "we his servants will arise and build" not only serves as a rallying cry but also identifies the group as God’s servants, reinforcing their unity and purpose.
• Rejection of Opposition: Nehemiah's statement "ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem" is a clear boundary-setting move against those who opposed him. It asserts that they have no legitimate claim over Jerusalem and indicates that God’s people must not be deterred by external threats.

Historical Context

To fully grasp Nehemiah 2:20, one must acknowledge the historical backdrop of Jewish exile and the passionate desire to restore Jerusalem after its devastation. Nehemiah’s leadership is a crucial element in the post-exilic community's efforts, embodying hope and renewal.

Commentaries Insights

Matthew Henry: He highlights Nehemiah’s faith as he turns to God rather than the adversaries who sought to derail the reconstruction. Henry emphasizes God's providence and the importance of faith in pursuing divine tasks.

Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that the phrase "The God of heaven" is significant as it acknowledges God's authority and dominion. He elaborates on Nehemiah’s understanding of divine backing in the face of opposition, serving as an assurance of both protection and success.

Adam Clarke: Clarke reflects on the leadership role Nehemiah plays, noting that true leaders must express strength and conviction in their missions. He underscores that Nehemiah encourages the remnant to see their work as not just physical labor but as service to their God.

Applications of Nehemiah 2:20

In today’s context, Nehemiah 2:20 teaches believers about the power of faith and conviction in God’s promises. When faced with challenges—whether personal, communal, or spiritual—drawing strength from divine assurance can motivate action and perseverance. It also instructs on the importance of discerning rightful boundaries against false claims or challenges when pursuing one’s mission.

Related Bible Cross References

• Ezra 1:1-4 - God's command for the building of the temple.
• Isaiah 41:10 - God's reassurance of assistance in difficult times.
• Nehemiah 4:6 - The people's determination to work on the wall despite opposition.

Conclusion

Nehemiah 2:20 serves not only as a historical record but as an enduring lesson on faith, leadership, and the unwavering commitment to God’s work. As believers engage in various endeavors, this verse offers a profound perspective on how reliance on God leads to successful outcomes amidst adversity.